Seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in dogs from rural area of Nossa Senhora da Glória, Sergipe, Brazil / Soroprevalência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em cães de área rural de Nossa Senhora da Glória, Sergipe, Brasil

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite with worldwide distribution. Dogs are considered sentinel animals, useful for the detection of environmental infections and outbreaks of disease through serological surveys. Considering this, we aimed to assess the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in dogs from rural areas of the hinterland of the state of Sergipe, Northeastern Brazil. A total of 77 blood samples were collected from dogs and analyzed by the Indirect Hemagglutination test for the detection of anti-T. gondii antibodies Samples were considered positive when titers greater than or equal to 1:16 were observed. In addition, an epidemiological questionnaire designed to identify characteristics of the animal was performed to owners regarding sex, breed, age, sterilization, access to areas outside the house, environmental hygiene, contact with other animals and dog food. A total of 49.3% of dogs (n = 38) were positive for anti-T. gondii antibodies, most with high titers (44.7%). A higher relative frequency of seropositivity was observed in male dogs, not sterilized, mixed breed, which were fed exclusively on homemade food and had access to the street and contact with other animals. Taken together, our data reinforce the importance of developing health education actions within the scope of public health aimed at preventing this zoonosis.

Toxoplasma gondii é um protozoário com distribuição mundial. Os cães são considerados animais sentinela, úteis para a detecção de infecções ambientais e surtos da doença por meio de levantamentos sorológicos. Portanto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar a soroprevalência da toxoplasmose em cães da zona rural da região rural do Alto Sertão Sergipano, Brasil. Um total de 77 amostras de sangue de cães foram coletadas no município de Nossa Senhora da Glória, Sergipe e submetidas ao teste de Hemaglutinação Indireta para detecção de anticorpos anti-T. gondii, considerando títulos maiores ou iguais a 1:16 como positivos. Além disso, foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico aos proprietários solicitando informações sobre sexo, raça, idade, esterilização, acesso às ruas, limpeza do ambiente, contato com outros animais e ração, além de dados do proprietário, como renda familiar e nível de educação. 49,3% dos cães (38/77) apresentaram anticorpos anti-T. gondii, a maioria com títulos elevados (44,7%). Foi observado maior frequência relativa de soropositividade em cães macho, não esterilizados, sem raça definida, que se alimentam exclusivamente de comida caseira e tem acesso a rua e contato com outros animais. Os dados obtidos reforçam a importância do desenvolvimento de ações de educação em saúde no âmbito da saúde pública voltadas à prevenção dessa zoonose.

Methods for the Measurement of Early Events in Toxoplasma gondii Immunity in Mouse Cells.

Critical steps in resistance of mice against Toxoplasma gondii occur in the first 2 or 3 h after the pathogen has entered a cell that has been exposed to interferon γ (IFNγ). The newly formed parasitophorous vacuole is attacked by the IFNγ-inducible IRG proteins and disrupted, resulting in death of the parasite and necrotic death of the cell. Here we describe some techniques that we have used to describe and quantify these events in different combinations of the host and the parasite.

Perfil imunogênico de vacinas inativadas contra agalaxia contagiosa em ovinos / Immunogenic profile of inactivated vaccines against contagious agalactia in sheep

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o perfil imunogênico em ovinos de três vacinas produzidas com linhagens brasileiras de Mycoplasma agalactiae. O perfil proteico do antígeno vacinal foi avaliado por SDS-PAGE e a imunogenicidade da vacina pela técnica de Western blot. A vacina foi inativada com formol, adsorvida em hidróxido de alumínio (Vacina 1), Montanide IMS-2215 (Vacina 2), Montanide Gel-01 (Vacina 3) e administradas em três doses. Entre a primeira e a segunda dose houve um intervalo de 21 dias, e entre a segunda e a terceira de 180 dias. O pool de soros de dez ovinos coletados nos períodos 0, 21, 35, 90, 150, 210, 270 e 360 dias pós-vacinação foram testados pela técnica de Western blot. A vacina 2 foi mais antigênica, com detecção de anticorpos 21 dias após a primeira dose. Para as vacinas 1 e 3, os anticorpos são verificados após 35 dias, com queda acentuada aos 90 dias; apenas anticorpos contra a proteína de 48 kDa apareceram após a terceira dose de forma discreta. Contra a vacina 2, ainda persistiram anticorpos contra as proteínas de 48, 55 e 80 kDa nos períodos 90, 150 e 210, que aumentaram após a terceira dose. Conclui-se que a vacina 2 induziu a resposta humoral de forma estável contra proteínas de M. agalactiae.

This study aimed to evaluate the immunogenic profile in sheep of three vaccines produced with a field Brazilian strains of Mycoplasma agalactiae. The vaccine protein profile was evaluated by SDS-PAGE and vaccine immunogenicity by Western blot. The vaccine was inactivated with formaldehyde and adsorbed onto three different adjuvants: with aluminum hydroxide (Vaccine 1), Montanide IMS 2215 (Vaccine 2), and Gel Montanide-01 (Vaccine 3). The vaccine was administered in three doses. Between the first and second dose there was an interval of 21 days, and between the second and the third one of 180 days. A pool of ten sera collected in 0, 21, 35, 90, 150, 210, 270 and 360 days after first vaccination were tested by Western blot techniques. The second vaccine was more antigenic with antibody detection 21 days after first dose. For both vaccines 1 and 3, antibodies were present 35 days after first dose, with a significant drop at 90 days; only antibodies against 48 kDa protein discreetly appeared after the third dose. Stimulation induced by vaccine 2 produced antibodies against 48, 55 and 80 kDa proteins that persisted until 90, 150 and 210 days after first dose, which rose again after third dose. It was concluded that the vaccine 2 induced stable humoral immunity against M. agalactiae proteins.

Requirements of protein for maintenance and growth in ram hair lambs.

The experiment was conducted to determine the protein requirements for maintenance (PM) and weight gain (NPg) in Brazilian Somali lambs (n = 48). A database of information on non-castrated rams (n = 48) with an initial body weight (BW) of 13.47 ± 1.76 kg was obtained, and the comparative slaughter technique was used to assess protein requirements. Eight lambs were initially slaughtered and used as a reference for estimation of the empty body weight (EBW) and initial body composition of the remaining animals. The lambs (n = 40) were distributed in a completely randomized block design involving five experimental diets, containing 4.93, 8.65, 9.41, 10.12, and 11.24 MJ/kg dry matter (DM). Daily nitrogen retention (DNR) was calculated as the difference between the final N content in the body minus the initial content estimated from the reference animals, divided by the number of experimental days. PM was estimated from the retained N regression equation as a function of ingested N (g per kg(0.75) EBW/day), extrapolating the equation to the zero level of N intake, followed by multiplication by a factor of 6.25. The protein content of the EBW was reduced from 119.72 to 102.07 g/kg of empty body weight gain (EBG) when BW increased from 13 to 28.70 kg, respectively. The requirement of protein for maintenance was 0.80 g per kg(0.75) EBW/day. Based on information described in the present study, we recommend the value of PM 0.80 g per kg(0.75) EBW/day, for hair sheep Brazilian Somalis raised in tropical regions. We also suggest that hair sheep have different requirements for protein maintenance and gain.

Resposta imunológica em caprinos vacinados contra agalaxia contagiosa / Immune response in goats vaccinated against contagious agalactia

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a eficiência de duas vacinas inativadas contra agalaxia contagiosa contendo adjuvante oleoso e aquoso. Para tanto, foram utilizados 73 caprinos, agrupados em dois experimentos. No experimento I, para avaliar a inocuidade das vacinas, foram utilizados 15 caprinos, subdivididos em três grupos de cinco animais cada, sendo que o grupo A1 foi imunizado com a vacina aquosa, o grupo B1 com a vacina oleosa e o grupo C não imunizado, foi o controle. No experimento II, para avaliar a resposta imune foram utilizados 58 caprinos, subdivididos em dois grupos, sendo o grupo A2, com 28 animais imunizados com a vacina aquosa e o grupo B2, com 30 animais imunizados com a vacina oleosa. Os animais do experimento II receberam uma terceira dose, 180 dias após a segunda dose vacinal. Os níveis de anticorpos foram determinados por ELISA indireto, realizado no dia de cada vacinação e 30 dias após a segunda dose (experimento I) e 30 dias após a terceira dose vacinal (experimento II). Os animais do grupo B1 e B2 (vacina oleosa) apresentaram níveis de anticorpos estatisticamente superiores (P<0,05) quando comparados aos dos grupos A1 e A2 (vacina aquosa) nos dois experimentos.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of two inactivated vaccines against contagious agalactia containing adjuvant oily and watery. For this, 73 goats were divided in two experiments. In the experiment I was verified the vaccine safety and 15 goats were divided into three experimental groups of five animals each. A1 and B1 groups were immunized with vaccine containing either aluminum or oil, respectively, and group C was the control group without immunization. In the experiment II, the immune response against the vaccines was evaluated by immunization of 58 goats that were divided in to two groups: group A2, 28 animals were immunized with the aluminum based vaccine; and group B2, 30 animals were immunized with the oil based vaccine. In the experiment II, the animals received a third dose on 180 day after the second dose. Antibody levels were determined by indirect ELISA from ssamples collected on vaccination days and on 30 day after the second dose (Experiment I) and on 30 day after the third dose (Experiment II). The animals from B1 and B2 groups (oil based vaccine) demonstrated higher antibody levels (P<0.05) than A1 and A2 (aluminum based vaccine) in both experiments.

Resistência antimicrobiana em Enterococcus faecalis e Enterococcus faecium isolados de carcaças de frango / Antimicrobial Resistance of Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium isolated from poultry carcasses

O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar o isolamento e analisar o perfil de resistência antimicrobiana de Enterococcus de carcaças de frango resfriadas e congeladas comercializadas no Distrito Federal, detectando genes de resistência antimicrobiana e identificando as espécies Enterococcus faecalis e Enterococcus faecium por reação polimerase em cadeia. Foram analisadas 100 carcaças de frangos, das quais foram isoladas 50 cepas de Enterococcus spp., sendo 42% de E. faecalis e 2% de E. faecium. O teste de susceptibilidade antimicrobiana demonstrou que todas as cepas isoladas apresentaram resistência a pelo menos um antimicrobiano, dos quais 90,47% das cepas de E. faecalis, 100% das cepas de E. Faecium e 82,14% dos Enterococcus spp. apresentaram resistência à Tetraciclina; 80,95% das cepas de E. faecalis e 35,71% das cepas de Enterococcus spp. foram resistentes à Eritromicina; 39,28% dos Enterococcus spp. e 23,80% dos E. faecalis à Ciprofloxacina e 28,57% dos E. faecalis apresentaram resistência ao Cloranfenicol. Foram detectados os genes de resistência antimicrobiana erm(B), vanC-1, aph(3')-llla, ant(6)-la, vanB, vanA, aac(6')-le-aph(2'')-la, erm(A) e tet(M) - este último mais frequente. Estes resultados sugerem sérios problemas para a Saúde Pública, uma vez que esses microrganismos podem possuir a capacidade de transmitir genes de resistência antimicrobiana para outros microrganismos presentes na microbiota intestinal de humanos e animais, podendo inviabilizar o uso destas drogas para tratamentos clínicos.

The aim of this study was to isolate and analyze the antimicrobial profile resistance of Enterococcus from cooled and frozen poultry carcasses commercialized at the Federal District area, detecting the antimicrobial resistance genes and identifying Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium by polymerase chain reaction. One hundred poultry carcasses were analyzed and 50 strains of Enterococcus spp. were isolated, of which 42% were E. faecalis and 2% E. faecium. The antimicrobial susceptibility test showed that all isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic; 90,47% of E. faecalis, 100% of E. faecium and 82,14% of Enterococcus spp. were resistant to Tetracycline; 80,95% of E. faecalis and 35,71% of Enterococcus spp. strains were resistant to Erythromycin; 39,28% of Enterococcus spp. and 23,80% of E. faecalis to Ciprofloxacin, and 28,57% of E. faecalis were resistant to Chloramphenicol. There were detected erm(B), vanC-1, aph(3')-llla, ant(6)-la, vanB, vanA, aac(6')-le-aph(2'')-la, erm(A) and tet(M) resistance genes, the last one most often verified. The results might suggest problems for public health due the high resistance, since these microorganisms have ability to transmit genes for antimicrobial resistance to others in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. Thus, the use of these drugs for clinical treatment could be hindered.

Prevention of cervical cancer in women with ASCUS in the Brazilian Unified National Health System: cost-effectiveness of the molecular biology method for HPV detection.

This study aimed to assess the performance of PCR as a means of detecting HPV 16/18 compared to the single probe-based PCR for detecting high-risk HPV, and evaluate these methods for detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) in follow-ups for ASCUS testing. It also compares the costs of cytology, PCR methods, colposcopy and biopsy in the Brazilian Unified National Health System. Of the 81 patients with ASCUS, 41 (50.6%) tested positive for HPV 16/18 in PCR testing and 47 (58.02%) tested positive for high-risk HPV with single probe-based PCR testing. The negative predictive value was 93.75% for HPV 16/18 PCR and 100% for single probe-based PCR in cases that progressed to high-grade CIN. The annual costs of patient referral were the following: R$2,144.52 for referral of patients with ASCUS cytology for colposcopy; R$6,307.44 for referral of patients with ASCUS cytology and PCR positive for HPV 16/18 or colposcopy; R$3,691.80 for referral of patients with ASCUS cytology with single probe-based PCR positive for high-risk HPV. Therefore, cost per user can be reduced by performing single probe-based PCR for high-risk HPV on patients with ASCUS.

Prevention of cervical cancer in women with ASCUS in the Brazilian Unified National Health System: cost-effectiveness of the molecular biology method for HPV detection / Prevenção de câncer de colo uterino em pacientes com ASCUS no Sistema Único de Saúde: custo-efetividade de método de biologia molecular para HPV

This study aimed to assess the performance of PCR as a means of detecting HPV 16/18 compared to the single probe-based PCR for detecting high-risk HPV, and evaluate these methods for detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) in follow-ups for ASCUS testing. It also compares the costs of cytology, PCR methods, colposcopy and biopsy in the Brazilian Unified National Health System. Of the 81 patients with ASCUS, 41 (50.6%) tested positive for HPV 16/18 in PCR testing and 47 (58.02%) tested positive for high-risk HPV with single probe-based PCR testing. The negative predictive value was 93.75% for HPV 16/18 PCR and 100% for single probe-based PCR in cases that progressed to high-grade CIN. The annual costs of patient referral were the following: R$2,144.52 for referral of patients with ASCUS cytology for colposcopy; R$6,307.44 for referral of patients with ASCUS cytology and PCR positive for HPV 16/18 or colposcopy; R$3,691.80 for referral of patients with ASCUS cytology with single probe-based PCR positive for high-risk HPV. Therefore, cost per user can be reduced by performing single probe-based PCR for high-risk HPV on patients with ASCUS.

Os objetivos deste estudo foram avaliar o desempenho do PCR para detecção de HPV 16/18 versus PCR sonda única para a detecção de HPV de alto risco, avaliar estes métodos na detecção de neoplasia intraepitelial cervical (NIC) no seguimento de ASCUS, e comparar os custos de citologia, métodos de PCR, colposcopia e biópsia no Sistema Único de Saúde. Das 81 pacientes com ASCUS, 41 (50,6%) foram positivas para o HPV 16/18 PCR, e 47 (58,02%) foram positivas para PCR sonda única para HPV de alto risco. O valor preditivo negativo foi de 93,75% para HPV 16/18 PCR e 100% para PCR sonda única em casos que evoluíram para NIC de alto grau. Os custos anuais encaminhando todas as pacientes com ASCUS para a colposcopia, encaminhando à colposcopia as pacientes com ASCUS e PCR positivo para HPV 16/18 e encaminhando à colposcopia aquelas pacientes com ASCUS e PCR sonda única para HPV de alto risco positivo foram de R$2.144,52, R$6.307,44 e R$3.691,80, respectivamente. Considerando eventual redução dos custos para utilização em grandes quantidades, este método poderia ser realizado em ASCUS.

Evaluation of Cytokines in Endocervical Secretion and Vaginal pH from Women with Bacterial Vaginosis or Human Papillomavirus.

Objective. To verify the relationship between vaginal pH and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and to measure cytokine levels in endocervical secretions of women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) or HPV. Methods. 173 women (16-48 years old) were enrolled and divided into groups: BV, HPV, and controls. Microbiological culture and vaginal pH were measured. HPV detect by PCR, and cytokines by ELISA (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α, and IFN-γ cytokines). Results. Of 173 women, 60 were control group (34.7%) and 113 were distributed in HPV (n=36, 20.8%), BV (n=36, 20.8%), vaginitis (n=30, 17.3%) and, BV and HPV-associated groups (n=11, 6.4%). Vaginal pH > 4.5 was related with HPV infection. IL-2 and IL-12 were increased in BV and HPV groups, and IL-6 (only BV group), compared to control group. IL-12 and IFN-γ were higher in HPV than BV group. Conclusion. The increase of vaginal pH was associated with HPV infection; BV and HPV groups had a Th1 cytokines immune response.

Avaliação de citocinas em secreção endocervical de mulheres com candidíase, tricomoníase ou vaginite bacteriana / Evaluation of cytokines in endocervical secretions of women with candidiasis, trichomoniasis or bacterial vaginitis

Os processos infecciosos na vagina devidos a micro-organismos são muito comuns. As vulvovaginites são, em grande parte, causadas por protozoários, leveduras, bactérias e/ou vírus. Sua erradicação ou contenção é normalmente mediada pelas citocinas da mucosa vaginal. O presente estudo teve a intenção de verificar a concentração de citocinas IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IFN-gama, TNF-alfa e suas relações com alguns dos agentes das infecções. Foram incluídas 173 mulheres sexualmente ativas com idade entre 16 e 48 anos, média de 31,4 mais ou menos 6,5 anos, as quais foram divididas nos seguintes grupos: controle, com candidíase, com tricomoníase e com vaginite bacteriana. As amostras foram submetidas ao cultivo e, posteriormente, à identificação do micro-organismo. Em seguida, foi feita a dosagem de citocinas da secreção endocervical por meio do teste ELISA. Os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística, calculando-se a mediana e o intervalo interquartil, e ao teste Mann-Whitney. Os resultados foram considerados significantes com p menor que 0,05. Verificou-se uma maior concentração de diferentes citocinas no trato genital inferior de mulheres com candidíase, tricomoníase, vaginite bacteriana do que naquelas com microbiota normal...

Estado nutricional e percepção alimentar em indivíduos institucionalizados com seqüelas de hanseníase / Nutritional status and eating perception in individuals institutionalized with sequels of leprosy

OBJETIVO: Conhecer o estado nutricional e percepção alimentar dos moradores com seqüelas de hanseníase. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, descritivo e analítico A população avaliada constou de 40 ex hansenianos institucionalizados. Para classificação do estado nutricional utilizou-se o Índice de Massa Corporal para adulto segundo OMS, 1995 e 1997 e para avaliação do consumo alimentar (calorias e proteínas) o registro alimentar de dois dias. Para percepção alimentar foi aplicado um questionário com 15 moradores que mantinham contato produtivo. Utilizou-se o software SPSS for Windows® versão 17.0.RESULTADOS: Três (7,5%) moradores apresentaram diagnóstico nutricional de magreza grau I; 4 (10%) grau II; 2 (5%) grau III; 23 (57,5%) de eutrofia; 6 (15%) de pré obesidade e 2 (5%) com diagnóstico nutricional de obesidade grau I. A soma dos moradores (25) com ad-equação calórica acima de 110% e abaixo de 90% foi superior ao número de moradores (15) com adequação calórica de 90 a 110%.O percentual médio de adequação protéica foi 131,2% . Com relação à percepção alimentar observou-se que 4(26,7%) têm percepção que não alimentam bem; 13(86,7%) que a alimentação é suficiente; 8(53,3%) gostam da alimentação oferecida na instituição; 9 (60%) alimentam exclusivamente das refeições oferecidas pela instituição; 9(60%) não gostam de mastigar os alimentos; 6(40,0%) gostam de ficar sozinhos durante as refeições. Os resultados mostraram uma situação preocupante, de risco nutricional. CONCLUSÕES: A associação entre as percepções merece ser valorizada pela equipe de saúde e responsáveis pela alimentação, que poderia gerar maior aceitação ao ali-mento oferecido. Torna-se imprescindível uma assistência voltada para minimizar as marcas, o sofrimento e a rejeição deixada pelo estigma social associado à hanseníase.

OBJECTIVE: Knowing the nutritional status and eating perception of residents with leprosy sequel. METHODS: The evaluated population consisted of 40 former leprosy residents . To determine the nutritional status the BMI (Body Mass Index) for adults was used according to WHO (Wolrd Health Organization) , 1995 and 1997 for assessment of food intake (protein and calories) the eating record of 2 days. To determine the eating perception a questionnaire was applied with 15 residents that were keeping productive contact. Data were tabulated and analyzed using Software SPSS for Windows® version 17.0.RESULTS: 3 (7,5%) residents presented nutritional diagnosis of thinness level I ; 4 (10%) thinness level II; 2 (5%) thinness level III; 23 (57,5%) eutrophic; 6 (15%) pre obesity; and 2 (5%) residents with nutritional diagnosis of obesity level I . It was observed that the sum of resindents (25) with caloric adequacy over 110% and below 90% was superior than the number of residents (15) with caloric adequacy from 90 to 110% . The average percentage of proteic adequacy of 131,2 % . Regarding eating perception it was observed that 4(26,7%) have perception that they do not eat well; 13(86,7%) answered that their diet is enough; 8(53,3%) like the food offered in the institution; 9 (60%) eat exclusively the meals offered in the institution; 9(60%) not like to chew the food; 6(40,0%) like to be alone during meals.CONCLUSION: The results showed a worrying situation of nutritional risk. The association among the perceptions deserve to be valued by the health team and responsible for feeding. This knowledge could generate greater acceptance to the food offered. It is indispensable assistance aimed to minimize the marks, suffering and rejection left by the social stigma associated with leprosy.

Fatores de risco associados às alterações celulares induzidas pelo papilomavírus humano no colo uterino / Risk factors associated with cellular alterations induced by the human papilloma virus in the uterine cervix

Objetivo Avaliar os fatores de risco associados às alterações citológicas cervicais induzidas por papilomavírus humano no colo uterino em um centro de referência de câncer. Métodos Foram incluídas 102 pacientes, divididas em dois grupos: com e sem lesões citológicas. O diagnóstico foi realizado por Papanicolaou, seguido de colposcopia e biópsia. Foram avaliados 16 critérios citomorfológicos, e coilocitose foi o mais frequentemente encontrado. Foram analisados fatores extrínsecos e intrínsecos como o uso de anticoncepcionais orais, condom, número de parceiros sexuais e leucorreia, por meio de análise de regressão univariada e multivariada, com cálculo do odds ratio e intervalo de confiança. Resultados Na análise univariada, a presença de alterações citológicas foi influenciada pelo uso prolongado de anticoncepcionais orais, condom, etilismo, leucorreia e vários parceiros sexuais. Na multivariada, as mulheres com mais de três parceiros sexuais apresentaram maior risco de lesão (OR=2,80; IC=1,12-6,99) e as usuárias de condom apresentaram redução do risco de lesão (OR=0,31; IC=0,10-0,90). Conclusão Na população estudada, o número de parceiros e o uso de condom estão associados às alterações induzidas por papilomavírus humano, como fator de risco e de proteção, respectivamente

Objective To evaluate risk factors associated with cytological alterations induced by the cervical human papilloma virus, in a cancer comprehensive center. Methods One hundred and two patients were included in this study, divided into two groups: with and without lesions induced by the human papilloma virus. Diagnosis of cell alterations was achieved using the Papanicolaou smear, colposcopy and biopsy. Sixteen cytomorphological criteria were analyzed. Koilocytosis was the most frequently found alteration. Extrinsic and intrinsic factors were analyzed such as: the use of oral contraceptives, condoms, number of sexual partners and leucorrhea were analyzed using univariate and multivariate regression models. The odds ratio and confidence interval were also calculated. Results For the univariate analysis, the presence of cell alterations was influenced by the prolonged use of oral contraceptives, condoms, alcohol use, purulent cervical discharge and the existence of more than three sexual partners. The multivariate analysis showed that women with more than three sexual partners presented a greater risk of injury (OR=2.80; CI=1.12-6.99) and the condom users presented a reduced risk (OR=0.31; CI=0.10-0.90). Conclusion The number of sexual partners and the use of condoms were associated with the human papilloma virus cervical cell alterations as an increased risk and as a protective factor, respectively

Prevalence of vulvovaginitis and bacterial vaginosis in patients with koilocytosis / Prevalência de vulvovaginte e vaginose bacteriana em pacientes com coilocitose

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Empirical discussion regarding an association between koilocytosis and vulvovaginitis often occurs. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of microorganisms associated with bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginitis in women with and without koilocytosis. DESIGN AND SETTING: Analytical cross-sectional study including two cohorts of women (with and without koilocytosis) who attended a cancer hospital in the city of Goiânia, state of Goiás. METHODS: A total of 102 patients entered the study. The whiff test, Gram and Papanicolaou staining and bacterial and fungal culturing were performed. The results were observed using univariate analysis. The odds ratio and confidence interval (CI) of the variables were calculated; P-values < 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of bacterial colonization was similar in patients with and without koilocytosis. The odds ratio for candidiasis was 1.43 (CI 1.05-1.95) and the odds ratio for trichomoniasis was 1.78 (CI 1.49-2.12), in patients with koilocytosis. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of candidiasis and trichomoniasis seems to be higher in patients with koilocytosis.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Existe uma discussão empírica sobre a associação de coilocitose e vulvovaginite. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi saber a prevalência de microorganismos associados à vaginose bacteriana e à vulvovaginite em mulheres com e sem coilocitose. DESENHO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal analítico, que incluiu duas coortes de mulheres, com e sem coilocitose, atendidas em um hospital de referência de câncer, na cidade de Goiânia, estado de Goiás. MÉTODOS: Um total de 102 pacientes entrou no estudo. Foram feitos os testes whiff, Gram e Papanicolaou, além de cultura para bactérias e fungos. Utilizou-se análise univariada, com o cálculo do risco relativo e do intervalo de confiança (IC). Considerou-se significativo quando valor de P < 0,05. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de colonização bacteriana foi similar em pacientes com e sem coilocitose. O risco relativo para candidíase observado em mulheres com coilocitose foi de 1,43 (IC 1,05-1,95) e, para tricomoníase, 1,78 (IC 1,49-2,12). CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência de candidíase e de tricomoníase parece ser maior nas pacientes com coilocitose.

Prevalence of vulvovaginitis and bacterial vaginosis in patients with koilocytosis.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Empirical discussion regarding an association between koilocytosis and vulvovaginitis often occurs. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of microorganisms associated with bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginitis in women with and without koilocytosis. DESIGN AND SETTING: Analytical cross-sectional study including two cohorts of women (with and without koilocytosis) who attended a cancer hospital in the city of Goiânia, state of Goiás. METHODS: A total of 102 patients entered the study. The whiff test, Gram and Papanicolaou staining and bacterial and fungal culturing were performed. The results were observed using univariate analysis. The odds ratio and confidence interval (CI) of the variables were calculated; P-values < 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of bacterial colonization was similar in patients with and without koilocytosis. The odds ratio for candidiasis was 1.43 (CI 1.05-1.95) and the odds ratio for trichomoniasis was 1.78 (CI 1.49-2.12), in patients with koilocytosis. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of candidiasis and trichomoniasis seems to be higher in patients with koilocytosis.

Genetic and functional analysis of the Nkt1 locus using congenic NOD mice: improved Valpha14-NKT cell performance but failure to protect against type 1 diabetes.

Defective invariant natural killer T-cells (iNKT cells) have been implicated in the etiology of type 1 diabetes in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice. In a genome scan of a cross between NOD and C57BL/6 mice, the most significant locus controlling the number of iNKT cells, referred to as Nkt1, was recently mapped to distal chromosome 1. Here, using congenic mice for this chromosomal segment, we definitively demonstrate the existence of Nkt1 and show that introgression of the C57BL/6 allele onto the NOD background improves both the number of iNKT cells and their rapid production of cytokines elicited by alpha-galactosylceramide treatment, explaining at least half of the difference between the NOD and C57BL/6 strains. Using new subcongenic lines, we circumscribed the Nkt1 locus to a 8.7-cM segment, between the NR1i3 and D1Mit458 markers, that notably includes the SLAM (signaling lymphocytic activation molecule) gene cluster, recently involved in murine lupus susceptibility. However, despite a significant correction of the iNKT cell defect, the Nkt1 locus did not alter the course of spontaneous diabetes in congenic mice. Our findings indicate a complex relationship between iNKT cells and autoimmune susceptibility. Congenic lines nonetheless provide powerful models to dissect the biology of iNKT cells.

Unusual chemokine receptor antagonism involving a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway.

Antagonism of chemokines on chemokine receptors constitutes a new regulatory principle in inflammation. Eotaxin (CCL11), an agonist for CCR3 and an attractant of eosinophils, basophils, and Th2 lymphocytes, was shown to act as an antagonist for CCR2, which is widely expressed on leukocytes and is essential for inflammatory responses. In this report we provide direct evidence for a novel mechanism how chemokine receptor function can be arrested by endogenous ligands. We show that binding of eotaxin to CCR2 stimulates the mitogen-activated protein kinases extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). Activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2-ERK pathway is indispensable for eotaxin-mediated attenuation of CCR2 function, as inhibition of ERK phosphorylation abolishes the arresting effect. ERK is also activated by CCR2 agonists, e.g., monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (CCL2). However, the involved pathways are different, although in either case coupling of CCR2 to pertussis toxin-sensitive heterotrimeric G proteins is necessary. The results are in agreement with the view that CCR2 could assume different activation states depending on the ligand it encounters. With respect to actin polymerization and calcium mobilization, the different activation states lead to agonistic and antagonistic responses. It is conceivable that the intracellular signal transduction pathway that is activated by eotaxin could cause an attenuation of proinflammatory responses mediated by CCR2.

O trabalho no Programa Saúde da Família: perfil das equipes / Work in the family health program - profile of the teams / El trabajo en el programa de salud de la familia - el perfil de los equipos

Objetiva-se identificar o perfil demográfico, experiência anterior e necessidades de capacitação dos trabalhadores de Saúde da Família da Divisão Regional de Saúde XVIII - SP. A análise do material obtido através de dados secundários e primários, mostra que a maioria das equipes é composta por mulheres; 25% dos enfermeiros e 100% dos médicos não residem nos municípios onde trabalham; a totalidade dos auxiliares de enfermagem já atuou na área hospitalar, enquanto que todos os enfermeiros e médicos tiveram experiência em serviços de atenção primária. Chama atenção o fato de 10,3% dos ACSs apresentar curso superior completo. Cerca de 63% dos trabalhadores referem deficiências de conhecimentos específicos para o desenvolvimento do trabalho no PSF, sendo que os temas identificados apresentam interface com a dimensão social, cultural, econômica, ética

This study intends to identify the demographic profile, previous experience and training needs of family health workers (DIR XVIII - SP). An analysis of material collected in secondary and primary data shows that most of the teams are made up of women; 25% of the nurses and 100% of the doctors do not live in the municipal districts in which they work; all the nursing auxiliaries had already worked in hospitals, while all the nurses and doctors had experience in primary care services, 10,3% of the community health agents had higher education. About 63% of the workers stated they lacked knowledge specific to the work in the Family Health Program, and the issues raised overlap with social, cultural, economic and ethical issues

Se busca identificar el perfil demográfico, la experiencia anterior y las necesidades de capacitación de los obreros de la salud de la familia - DIR XVIII - SP. El análisis del material, obtenido por medio de los datos primarios y secundarios, muestra que la mayoría de los equipos está compuesta por mujeres; que el 25% de las enfermeras y el 100% de los médicos no viven en los distritos municipales dónde trabajan; que todos los auxiliares de enfermería ya trabajaron en el hospital; que todas las enfermeras y médicos tenían experiencia en los servicios de atención primaria y que el 10,3% de ACSs tienen nivel universitario completo. Cerca del 63% de los obreros señalan deficiencias de conocimiento específico para desarrollar el trabajo de PSF; los temas identificados están relacionados con la dimensión socioeconómica, cultural y ética

Parâmetros biométricos do trato genital masculino de caprinos sem raça definida (SRD) criados no semi-árido nordestino durante o período seco e chuvoso / Biometry from crioula goat male reproductive in northeastern semi-arid during season dry or rainy

Este trabalho teve por objetivo comparar a morfometria do trato genital masculino caprino entre a época seca e chuvosa. Foram coletados 46 e 52 genitais de machos caprinos na época seca e chuvosa, respectivamente. Testículos foram identificados em direito ou esquerdo, mensurados quanto ao comprimento, espessura e diâmetro. Os epidídimos foram pesados. Ductos deferentes e o pênis foram mensurados quanto ao comprimento. As vesículas seminais foram identificadas em direita ou esquerda, pesadas individualmente, e mensuradas quanto ao comprimento, largura e espessura. Os parâmetros de peso, largura, espessura e comprimento das diferentes estruturas foram submetidos ao teste t de Student a 5,00 por cento de probabilidade. Os resultados demonstraram que houve diferença significativa entre os parâmetros mensurados no período seco e chuvoso (P<0,05), com exceção da vesícula seminal. Também foi demonstrado que os maiores valores foram encontrados no período seco, com exceção do ducto deferente. Concluiu-se que os parâmetros biométricos de caprinos SRD da região semi-árida do Nordeste do Brasil são inferiores aos citados na literatura internacional. Estes resultados demonstraram que o processo de adaptação de raças exóticas trazidas pelos colonizadores portugueses ao longo destes 500 anos provocou uma diminuição do porte dos mesmos, tornando-os mais rústicos, porém com características reprodutivas normais, mesmo em épocas de escassez de alimentos.